Modal Electronics Argon8 Synthesizer

Modal Electronics Argon8 Synthesizer - Polyphonic wavetable power for studio and stage

With the Modal Electronics Argon8 synthesizer, the British manufacturer presents a powerful polyphonic wavetable synthesizer that not only impresses with its modern sound, but also with its extensive modulation architecture and professional workmanship. Eight voices of true polyphony, 120 wavetables, a high-resolution arpeggiator, a 512-step sequencer and a mod matrix with 52 destinations make the Argon8 a versatile sound tool for electronic music, sound design and live performances.

The sleek design, high-quality controls and comprehensive connectivity - including USB, MIDI, sync and audio-in - round off the overall package. The Argon8 is suitable for both beginners and experienced sound tinkerers and delivers impressive soundscapes from subtle to brute, from analog-inspired to digitally experimental.

Modal Electronics - sound innovation from Great Britain

Modal Electronics is known for its innovative approach to synthesizer development. The company has made a name for itself worldwide with models such as the 002 and the Skulpt SE. The Argon8 continues this philosophy and offers modern wavetable sound generation paired with advanced modulation control in a stable, roadworthy housing.

Modal combines classic synthesis principles with modern digital technology and an innovative user interface. The free ModalApp software editor for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android and as a VST3 and AU plugin enables deep sound design directly from the computer or mobile device - ideal for studio work and live use alike.

Technical details of the Modal Electronics Argon8

The Argon8 is based on eight voices of true polyphony, with each voice having access to two independent wavetable oscillators. A total of 120 carefully designed wavetables are available, complemented by 28 static wavetable processors and 8 oscillator modifiers that can create and modulate new sound shapes. Thanks to this variety, both classic sounds and modern, complex textures are possible.

The two-pole morphable resonance filter can be smoothly and organically blended between different characteristics and its sound character can also be influenced by waveshaping distortion. Three high-quality stereo effects units offer reverb, delay, chorus and more - fully customizable and storable.

The FATAR TP9/S keyboard with 37 velocity-sensitive keys and aftertouch offers a very precise and expressive playing feel. An intuitive 4-axis joystick enables additional real-time modulation of parameters such as pitch, filter or FX - ideal for expressive performances.

The 1.54-inch OLED display provides razor-sharp feedback on parameters, modulations and presets. The user interface is equipped with high-quality Bournes encoders that allow precise control and are durable at the same time.

Mod matrix, sequencer and arpeggiator

At the heart of the Argon8's flexible sound design is the modulation matrix. It offers eight assignable slots and four fixed destinations. A total of 11 modulation sources (including LFOs, envelopes, joystick axes, velocity, aftertouch etc.) and 52 destinations are available. This architecture enables extremely complex modulations - easy and clear to program.

In addition, the Argon8 has a powerful 512-step sequencer with real-time recording and quantization. This allows you to program complete phrases, complex rhythmic structures and modulated loops. The built-in arpeggiator with 32 steps is also fully programmable and offers various playing modes and tempo synchronization.

All time-based elements - i.e. FX, LFOs, sequencers and arpeggios - can be synchronized both internally and externally. This makes the Argon8 particularly attractive for hybrid setups consisting of software and hardware.

Versatile connection options

The Modal Argon8 offers comprehensive connectivity for every setup:

• USB-MIDI: Class Compliant, no drivers required
• Real MIDI in/out sockets in DIN format
• Sync In/Out: for integration into DAW-less setups
• Audio outputs: 6.3 mm jack (L/R)
• Sustain and expression pedal connectors (6.3 mm)
• 3.5 mm stereo audio input for integrating external sound sources via the internal effects

Thanks to this variety, the Argon8 can be seamlessly integrated into modern studio environments, live rigs or DAW-controlled setups.

Why the Modal Electronics Argon8 is worth buying

With the Modal Electronics Argon8, you get a professional wavetable powerhouse with enormous sonic depth, flexible modulation, high-quality workmanship and an intuitive operating concept. The combination of polyphonic power, complex mod matrix, powerful sequencer and expressive 4-axis joystick makes it a real creative tool for studio and stage.

Thanks to the integration of the free ModalApp for all common platforms and plug-ins, the Argon8 is also perfect for hybrid setups. It delivers modern sounds and classic timbres in equal measure - ideal for electronic music, ambient, sound design, film music or experimental compositions. If you're looking for a compact but uncompromisingly professional synthesizer, the Argon8 is an excellent choice.

Features:

• 8-voice polyphonic wavetable synthesizer with 2 oscillators per voice
• 120 wavetables, 28 wavetable processors, 8 oscillator modifiers
• FATAR TP9/S 37 keys with velocity and aftertouch
• Two-pole morphable resonance filter with waveshaping distortion
• 3 customizable stereo effects (reverb, delay, chorus etc.)
• Mod matrix with 8 free and 4 fixed slots, 11 sources and 52 destinations
• 32-step arpeggiator, 512-step real-time sequencer with quantization
• 2 audio rate LFOs with tempo sync (polyphonic and global)
• OLED display (1.54 inch) for visual feedback
• 4-axis joystick for expressive modulation
• USB-MIDI (Class Compliant), MIDI DIN In/Out, Sync In/Out
• 6.3 mm audio outputs (L/R), sustain/expression pedal inputs
• 3.5 mm stereo audio input with FX routing
• Robust steel and aluminum housing
• 500 patch memory locations
• ModalApp for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, VST3 and AU

Specs:

• Color: Grey
• USB-MIDI: USB and MIDI
• MIDI Inputs: 1 Port
• MIDI Outputs: 1 Port
• Line Outputs: 2
• Number of Keys: 37
• Type of sound generation: digital
• Type: Synthesizer
• Theme: Keyboard Instruments

Instruction manual / Safety instructions:

• Manual (1.52 MB)

Further links:

• Print View